Sunderland Stage Iconic Magpies Squad Picture Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Victory.

A different manager and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.

Nearly two years ago, after a dominant Newcastle performance at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the rivals celebrated with a group photo on the pitch.

This time, the script were reversed.

Nick Woltemade's own goal proved enough to deliver Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the return of the Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to stage their own version of Newcastle's iconic snapshot at full-time.

“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who suggested the idea.

Defender Dan Ballard, who scored an own goal in that cup defeat, was the lone Sunderland player to feature from the beginning in each of the games.

He revealed how he was eager to avenge the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had let them down, so we're delighted with this win.”

“It prepared us more for today. We came in with greater talent in this team, real leaders, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”

‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’

Seventh-placed Sunderland are having a superb return to the top flight after promotion via the play-offs last season.

The Black Cats have 26 points in 16 games, their most at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.

They are undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which had an feverish atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.

“These games are all about the victory, by hook or by crook,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team is worthy of more respect – where we are in the league is incredible and we're working really hard.”

Sunderland are also without a loss in their last 10 league games against Newcastle, their best-ever streak without defeat against the Magpies.

Newcastle's last league win over Sunderland was over a decade ago.

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “proud and happy” with the performance.

“It was a derby and we were expected [to win] of our fans,” he added. “This win is rightfully earned, we were composed and the lads were superb.”

“It's good for the area, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to reset quickly as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”